Black bears are awesome animals, and extremely fun to hunt. But while black bear hunting is addicting, it can come along with plenty of challenges. For example, how do you stalk a black bear? For an animal with amazing ears, good eyesight, and the best nose in the woods, how do you even get close to one?
When it comes to stalking a black bear with a bow, there are a few key things to keep in mind that will help you find more success. Here are a few tips to get you started, and to help you close the distance on that next big bruin!
It Is All About the Food
Bears care about nothing more than what they are going to eat next. They are driven by their need and want of food in everything they do, from their movements to their everyday habits. If you can keep this in mind, you will not only find them much easier but they will be much easier to stalk as well. Because bears are always on the move, they can sometimes be a challenge to stalk. Finding them on a food source may provide you with an opportunity at a stationary bear that is feeding.
A feeding bear is one of the few times that you will find them staying put in one place. Try to find a reliable food source that the bears are using, and you will find a great opportunity to sneak in close!
Keep an Eye on the Wind
A black bear’s nose is his greatest asset. Black bears can smell you from miles away, so it is very important that you are always aware of what the wind is doing. Black bears rely on their nose more so than their ears and eyes, so try to always stay downwind. While they are by no means blind, their eyesight isn’t the greatest and if you can move slowly and quietly, staying downwind, you will be able to get within shooting distance.
Get in Front and Let Them Come to You
The biggest key to stalking into a black bear is to figure out where he is going, and then to get in front of them. Even while feeding, a black bear will slowly be moving. Figure out the general direction they are moving, and let the bears do the work for you. As long as you are quiet and downwind, the bear will cut much of the distance for you.
Final Thoughts
Stalking into a big black bear can seem like a challenge to many hunters, but if you remember a few of these simple tricks it will become much easier. The next time you chase after these amazing animals, you will see just how easy it can be to get within shooting distance!
For more great ideas on how to fish and hunt from the experts, check out the awesome articles on our Bradley Smoker Hunting & Fishing Blog for more great tips & tricks.
